Encountering the Mystery: Understanding Orthodox Christianity Today
Overview
As Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I is the symbol of unity for the self-governing Orthodox Christian churches throughout the world. He is well known for his commitment to protecting the environment, and for opening communications with other Christians (especially the Roman Catholic Church) as well as Muslims and other religious groups.
Warm and erudite, Encountering the Mystery illuminates the rich spirit of Orthodox Christianity. Patriarch Bartholomew traces the roots of Orthodoxy to its founding 2,000 years ago, explores Eastern spirituality and doctrine, and explains its liturgy and art. Of particular note is how Patriarch Bartholomew relates Orthodoxy to contemporary issues, such as human rights, social justice, and globalization, as well as both nationalism and war.
With a recent rebirth of Orthodox churches (particularly in the former Soviet Union and elsewhere in Central and Eastern Europe), there has been great interest in understanding this important branch of Christianity with its close ties to the traditions of the early Church. But for the general seeker, whatever their background, Encountering the Mystery is a rich resource that draws upon the wisdom of millennia.
With Logos Bible Software, this volume is enhanced with cutting-edge research tools. Scripture citations appear on mouseover in your preferred English translation. Important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Powerful topical searches help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Tablet and mobile apps let you take the discussion with you. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
Looking for more Orthodox resources? Check out The Holy Orthodox Bible (9 vols.).
- Introduces the reader to the basic tenets of the Orthodox faith
- Explores Orthodox spirituality, doctrine, liturgy, and art
- Relates Orthodox Christianity to contemporary issues
- Foreword by Kallistos Ware
- Biographical Note by John Chryssavgis
- Historical Perspectives: The Orthodox Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate
- Song and Space: Art, Architecture, and Liturgy
- The Gift of Theology: Basic Principles and Perspectives
- Vocation of Love: Monasticism as Choice and Calling
- Spirituality and Sacraments: Prayer and the Spiritual Life
- The Wonder of Creation: Religion and Ecology
- Faith and Freedom: Conscience and Human Rights
- Transforming the World
- Social Justice: Poverty and Globalization
- Religion and Society: Fundamentalism and Racism
- War and Peace: Conflict and Dialogue
- Epilogue: The Hope that Lies Within
Orthodoxy is neither just a theological system nor just a set of liturgical disciplines; it is in the most serious and full sense wisdom—a perspective of Spirit-led insight that transforms both vision and action. In this exceptional book, Patriarch Bartholomew inducts his readers into this wisdom and demonstrates with authority how it bears upon a range of global issues. There is nothing archaic here, though plenty that is traditional; nothing merely fashionable, though plenty that is sharply contemporary. It is a treasury of sane and generous theology, from one of the truly great figures in the Christian world today.
—Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury
The Ecumenical Patriarch is renowned as a bridge-builder. Encountering the Mystery is a bridge in book form, and a majestic structure it is. The text first introduces readers to the tenets and values of the Orthodox Church, then prompts us to think deeply about the nature of the world in which we live, then summons us to act on behalf of all creation. The volume is nothing less than a work of art, informed by faith, and infused with wisdom and love.
—Madeleine K. Albright, former United States Secretary of State
This is an extraordinary book, for Patriarch Bartholomew is a quite exceptional human being. He has a deep understanding of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism and works tirelessly to bridge their worlds. He is concerned for the future of unborn generations, linking poverty, the dark side of globalization, and the unsustainable lifestyles of the elite with environmental degradation. He is an extraordinarily wise global leader, using the gift of his life to make this a better world for all, knowing God in all, and urging us to do the same.
—Jane Goodall, UN Messenger of Peace
- Title: Encountering the Mystery: Understanding Orthodox Christianity Today
- Author: Bartholomew I of Constantinople
- Edition: 1st ed.
- Publisher: Doubleday
- Print Publication Date: 2008
- Logos Release Date: 2015
- Pages: 304
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subject: Orthodox Eastern Church
- ISBNs: 9780385518130, 0385518137
- Resource ID: LLS:NCNTRNGMYSTRTDY
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2024-03-25T20:25:40Z